5 Amazing Beaches Within Reach of Baku, Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, in the Caucasus, has more than 500 kilometres (311 miles) of coastline along the western Caspian Sea. The capital hugs the shore, and while many beaches in Baku have high levels of oil pollution, others are clean and family-friendly. Here are some of the best beaches in Baku, free from pollution.

Shikhov Beach

Shikhov Beach, Baku’s favourite beach complex, lies 9.5 kilometres (5.9 miles) to the south of the city centre. Buses (number 125) go to Shikhov from Icheri Sheher for a few cents taking approximately fifteen minutes. An adjoining Aqua Park with water slides, two large swimming pools and a children’s pool along with other facilities make this one of the top beaches in Baku. You can use the loungers, colourful umbrellas and grab a drink in the bar. While Shikov may not be the best beach in the world, it still makes a beautiful place to spend a summer’s afternoon.

Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach, near Shikhov and part of a hotel, has 400 metres (1312 feet) of clean sand with a safety cordon and lifeguards. This family-friendly beach in Baku sits next to the exclusive Mambo Beach Club and provides visitors with changing rooms, access to a swimming pool and a whirlpool. Non-guests can use the beach area but may need to pay a fee, and it might be a good idea to call in advance. But, you can justify the cost because of the clean sand, lifeguards and family friendliness.

Bilgah Beach

Some of the best beaches in Baku aren’t in the city. Bilgah, to the northeast along the Absheron Peninsular, has sandy stretches and unpolluted waters. If you travel to Baku and rent a car, it takes approximately 30 minutes from the city centre. Admission is free. But, there’s a small fee to use their facilities such as changing rooms, umbrellas and sunbeds. Several hotels and resorts line this stretch of the Caspian Sea too.

Amburan Beach Club

Amburan Beach Club, 44 kilometres (27.3 miles) from Baku and a little further north of Bilgah, rates as one of the capital’s best beach clubs. Local families and people from all walks of life drive here to relax in an attractive and clean environment with all facilities at hand. Admission fees vary depending on what day you visit with weekends costing slightly more. Visitors get a sun lounger, towel and access to the pools. Food and drink are available. If you want to visit the best beach in Baku, either drive or take a taxi. Public transport can be tricky and involves walking along the highway.

SeaZone Beach Baku

If you’re looking for a clean spot without the crowds, check out SeaZone Beach Baku. Located in Nardaran on the Absheron Peninsula’s north side, the beach provides clean sand, sun loungers and a nice spot to relax. SeaZone is approximately 38 kilometres (23.6 miles) from Icheri Sheher in one of Azerbaijan’s only conservative Islamic regions. If you visit this beach in Baku, Nardaran is worth checking out for an hour or so too.